By: Lorena Martinez, The George Washington University
James Kofi Annan
For some time, I have been a part of the movement to end modern day slavery. I have heard numerous people speak to end this horrifying crime, from legislators in my home state of Connecticut to social activists in Washington, DC. Although the work being done by our local, state and federal governments and social activists will always be crucial to end modern day slavery, there is nothing more powerful than to hear the accounts of victims who have experienced and lived through the appalling act.
Recently, former child slave, James Kofi Annan from Ghana, came to recount his experience with The FREE Project at The George Washington University. Listening to James speak of his experience as a slave in the fishing industry at such a young age, caused all types of emotions and thoughts. James recalled back to the moment when he was sold to the fishing industry. He stated how confused and scared he was and the abuse and long hours he endured working in the waters of Ghana’s fishing villages. While listening to this, it hit me again how this reality, although no longer existent to James, is still a reality for millions of people both domestically and abroad. It was empowering to hear James speak of the moment when he was able to run away and the path he took to educate himself in order to work for a life full of opportunities. However, I kept asking myself, “How can we make this happen for millions of others that are still enslaved around the globe and domestically? How do we spread this message to my peers and colleagues to push for a stronger movement towards the end of modern day slavery?” Listening to James speak only reinforced my commitment to end modern day slavery. I am committed to answering these questions and making this act a thing of the past.
As a committed member of this social movement, I believe that we will get to the end of modern day slavery. I believe that one day, modern day slavery will no longer exist. However, in order to get to the end of this, we need to have a stronger movement, get our voices heard, especially those of survivors to make modern day slavery as part of the past. I hope that anyone who has the chance to read this will continue to encounter stories like James’ and join me in the fight to end modern day slavery once and for all.